2nd March 2017, 18:59

WRL Scrums Down with Beach Rugby Wales

New Exciting Opportunity

Wales Rugby League are delighted to announce a new association with Beach Rugby Wales ahead of their 2017 tournament on Saturday 22nd July in Swansea Bay.

The new partnership will aim to grow and promote Rugby League across Wales as well as develop opportunities for players and the public to become qualified Wales Rugby League Referees.

Another aim is to help Wales Rugby League grow their base of players, both male and female. It is a World Cup year for the National Side, Students and Wheelchair team so it's an exciting time, and the Swansea-based Beach Rugby are set to get behind the national teams.

In turn, Wales Rugby League will help co-ordinate the event, provide training to referees to become rugby league qualified match officials as well as attend the day and promote rugby league to those attending.

Beach Rugby Wales founder Ashleigh Walters said: "We are delighted to be working with the WRL Governing Body.

"It's been a long time since Wales Rugby League has come to Swansea city itself. We remember the old matches at the Vetch Field back in the 1990s, which is just 100 metres from our sandy stadium. It's also a great opportunity to open the doors to over 50 clubs which will hopefully help grow the rugby league game in Wales and further afield.

"The new association will also be a great opportunity for both parties to speak with potential new and current partners and grow their commercial arm especially with the successful corporate competition at Beach Rugby Wales.

Sponsors can enjoy a great day out playing against other businesses whilst enjoying a beer with their staff and families.

"Beach Rugby Wales is played mainly by union sides, invitational teams and groups of friends, but the style of play is physical touch, so it fits well with the physical rugby league brand and shows how great an event it is to have the national governing body of Wales Rugby League come on board."

WRL National Development Manager Idris Evans is excited with the prospect of rugby league taking to the sand:

“Gareth, Ashleigh and I have been working on this venture for some time now and the WRL are really excited to be getting involved with this prestigious event. Beach Rugby is basically rugby league without as much physicality so it ties in great with our laws of the game and match officials / referees.”

“The event falls right in the middle of our season so we’re hoping to get some clubs along and have some fun, the day will provide us with a great opportunity to spread the word of rugby league in South Wales and specifically the Swansea area.”

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of, or competitor in Beach Rugby Wales 2017, please get in touch by emailing Beach Rugby Wales Commercial Director Gareth Howells at gareth@beachrugbygb.co.uk or by calling 07974873683.